An update on engineering issues concerning stratospheric aerosol injection for geoengineering
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Abstract
Solar Radiation Management (SRM) geoengineering is a proposed response to anthropogenic global warming (AGW).1 Stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) is one proposed method, reliant on lofting material into the stratosphere. Engineering reviews related to this technology approach have been sparse, with most major primary analyses now at least five years old. We attempt to bridge this gap – with a short, qualitative review of recent developments in various fields of engineering that have potential applicability to SAI. Our analysis shows that a new conventional aircraft design is still likely to be the most dependable and affordable technology solution (cost estimates start around $1000- 1500 per ton lofted), with hybrid or vacuum airships a potential challenger. Rockets, gas guns and MAGLEV/coilguns show some potential – although they lack the inherent level-flight capability that would be needed for direct aerosol distribution (versus distribution of gaseous precursors), without substantial additional engineering. Should very high-altitude access be required, rockets, jet-hybrid rockets, and various guns (especially light-gas guns) potentially offer the required capability. Costs and performance for tethered balloons remain highly uncertain. Towers are not found to be promising. The extreme accessibility of free balloons suggests that this method may be used primarily for reasons of political leverage, as opposed to being an optimal engineering solution.
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2515-7620